Bat Conservation: Bat Boxes

Bat Boxes

One way to bring bats into your yard is to create an environment that bats love. This involves a home, safety, food and water.

Tips to install a box

Do not install on a tree as they are open to predators, it lacks sunshine and the tree

branches can interfere with bats leaving the box.
Hang on a building or a pole with at least 6 hours sunlight and no less than 10-12 feet off ground.
The box should be a certain color based on where you live (click image at right).
The chambers should not exceed 3/4 inch.
Inside of box needs groves for the bats to hang. These should be cut into the wood. Do NOT use mesh.
Make sure box is safe from predators which includes your dogs and cats.

Install a pup catcher under the bat box to catch bats that may fall out. It provides them with the means to climb back into box.
You want to create a habitat that appeals to bats.

Install bat boxes. Make sure they are designed properly and installed correctly for bats.

Try to reduce predators around bat box and do not forget that pets can also prey upon bats so make sure to keep your dog or cat away from bat boxes.

Predators of bats.

Provide food for the bat. Plant vegetation that attracts night insects for the bats to eat. You can also provide plants for the pollinator bats.

Bat Box Mistakes

Some reasons a bat may not take up residence in a box can be due to several reasons. But the main problem is that people are quick to go out and purchase abox and throw it up where ever it appeals to them. The box should be to benefit the bat, not us.

Read more on bat box mistakes

Additional information on bat boxes

37 Free DIY Bat House Plans that Will Attract the Natural Pest Control (and Save Their Lives)
Batbnb
Bat Houses and Wasps
Selecting a Quality Bat House
Turn your whole garden into a real-life bat signal

Check out "Shop" page to purchase a bat box

In The End ...

Do not get discouraged if a bat does not move in right away. That is normal. Bats make their own choice and we cannot change that. It can take a few years for a bat to move in. If a bat does not move in after a few years, you may want to evaluate the box and location to see if it has some issues. Be patient. This takes time.

Attracting Bats to Your Backyard